Chetumal’s ‘Barrio Mágico’ Project Stalled Over Pedestrian Zone Debate

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — The Barrio Mágico urban renewal project in Chetumal remains stalled due to a lack of consensus between authorities and residents, primarily over whether to pedestrianize a section of Avenida de los Héroes.

Architect Víctor Sánchez Ruz, president of the Chetumal Institute of Technology Alumni Association, said the main obstacle is the unresolved debate over converting part of the avenue into a pedestrian zone. He described the project as ambitious and a key opportunity to modernize the city’s image, but warned that disagreements are delaying execution as the current administration’s term winds down.

The first phase of the project includes renovating the Explanada de la Bandera and the Avenida de los Héroes walkway, areas considered strategic for boosting tourism and strengthening the capital’s identity.

“Unfortunately, the issue of reaching agreement between society and government has postponed an important project for Chetumal, and the government’s time is running out,” Sánchez Ruz said.

He argued the debate should not focus solely on restoring a past image but on defining the type of city Chetumal aims to become. He advocated for a contemporary Anglo-Caribbean identity with safer, more functional, and attractive public spaces for both residents and visitors.

Sánchez Ruz acknowledged resistance to the project, noting that many residents are accustomed to using cars, leading to divided opinions on pedestrianization. He also said the alumni association has not been invited to participate in the project’s development, though he has attended meetings as a member of the College of Architects where investment proposals were presented.